Plate (one of a set of twelve) 1715 - 1716

This plate is one of a set of twelve made of silver by Thomas Farren, a London silversmith active in the first half of the 18th century. Silver has been prized for millennia, not only for its beauty, but its resistance to tarnishing. Plates such as these were made by raising a flat disc of silver by hammering, and then planishing the surface to a perfect, even sheen. Note the subtle concentric lines around the rim, achieved through careful turning on a lathe. These details show Farren’s mastery of silversmithing. The creation of objects like this plate was possible through highly developed processes and division of labor, requiring substantial capital investment. Silver wasn't just a material, but a status symbol. Plates like these weren't just functional objects; they were potent markers of social class and wealth. Considering the making of such an object gives a rich and nuanced perspective, beyond the traditional divide between art and craft, opening up many questions about the nature of labor, materials, and value.